Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Category: Security

  • Federal Authorities Arraign Nine Suspects Over Deadly Benue State Massacre

    Federal Authorities Arraign Nine Suspects Over Deadly Benue State Massacre

    Figures cited by Daily Post reveal that nine individuals allegedly involved in a horrific attack that claimed over 150 lives in Benue State have finally faced a federal court in Abuja. The defendants were slammed with 57 counts of terrorism-related charges following the June 2025 massacre in the Yelewata community. The suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges, which carry potential sentences of life imprisonment or the death penalty.

    The trial comes amid heightened pressure on the Federal Government to curb the persistent farmer-herder clashes and banditry that have plagued north-central Nigeria. Legal representatives for the state argued that the prosecution has gathered substantial evidence to link the suspects to the planning and execution of the coordinated assault. The presiding judge has ordered the defendants to be remanded in a maximum-security facility pending the commencement of the trial.

    Additional coverage from Channels TV and The Guardian confirms the start of the judicial proceedings. Channels TV reported that “the arraignment signals a renewed commitment to justice for victims of rural violence,” while The Guardian quoted a community leader from Yelewata who said, “We are watching this trial closely to see if the government truly values our lives.”

    Echotitbits take: High-profile arraignments in Nigeria often suffer from “trial fatigue” and endless adjournments. To restore faith in the security apparatus, the government needs a swift and transparent conviction. This case is a litmus test for the effectiveness of the new counter-terrorism legal framework.

    Source: LMTonline – https://www.lmtonline.com/news/world/article/nine-arraigned-for-deadly-attack-in-nigeria-that-21329076.php, February 3, 2026

    Photo credit: LMTonline

  • Minister of Defense Explains Delay in Publicly Confirming Foiled Coup Attempt

    Minister of Defense Explains Delay in Publicly Confirming Foiled Coup Attempt

    Reporting by Daily Post indicates that the Minister of Defense, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has clarified why the military initially withheld information regarding a failed coup attempt against the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Speaking on a national television program, the Minister explained that the sensitivity of the situation required a thorough investigation to ensure all facts were verified before a public statement was made.

    The Minister emphasized that the attempt was a result of gross indiscipline and that those involved are fully aware of the grave consequences of their actions. He noted that the military’s priority was to maintain national stability and prevent panic while the intelligence services worked to identify all conspirators involved in the plot, which reportedly originated in late 2025.

    The development was also extensively covered by Channels TV, where the Minister was quoted saying: “Coup is such a serious thing that we don’t want to say this today and tomorrow we say another thing.” Premium Times corroborated the story, adding that security at the Presidential Villa has been significantly bolstered. A security analyst featured in their report noted: “The transparency now being shown by the defense headquarters is a sign of internal confidence.”

    Echotitbits take:

    This admission highlights the lingering fragility in the West African democratic landscape, following a wave of successful coups in neighboring countries. By coming clean, the government is attempting to project strength and control. Watch for potential court-martials in the coming weeks, as the military seeks to use these “consequences” to deter any further thoughts of insurrection within the ranks.

    Source: ThisDay – https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/02/02/coup-attempt-i-was-targeted-for-elimination-says-defence-minister/, and February 2, 2026

    Photo credit: ThisDay

  • Intelligence Agencies Uncover Major Conspiracy Against Presidential Administration

    Intelligence Agencies Uncover Major Conspiracy Against Presidential Administration

    In an update published by Premium Times on February 1st, 2026, Nigerian security forces have concluded an extensive investigation into a suspected coup plot aimed at toppling the current administration. A total of 40 suspects, including high-ranking military officers and several civilians, have been identified and detained for their alleged roles in reconnaissance, funding, and the spread of anti-government propaganda.

    Figures cited by Channels TV indicate that the suspects were allegedly planning to seize strategic locations such as the Presidential Villa and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The report clarifies that the Defence Headquarters has already forwarded the case files to the appropriate superior authorities for court-martial proceedings. “We remain committed to the sanctity of our democracy and will ensure that any element attempting to truncate it faces the full weight of the law,” a military source told the outlet.

    Reporting by The Nation further validates the development, revealing that some of the suspects were tracked through encrypted communication channels. The publication quoted a senior SSS official who said, “The level of sophistication in the planning was alarming, but our intelligence apparatus was three steps ahead to ensure stability.”

    Echotitbits take: The revelation of a coup plot involving “high-ranking officers” is a serious security concern that underscores internal tensions within the defense architecture. While the government has successfully neutralized the threat, the focus now shifts to the transparency of the trials and whether this will lead to a wider shake-up of the military top brass.

    Source: Legit.ng – https://www.legit.ng/entertainment/celebrities/1694779-popular-nollywood-actor-reportedly-implicated-alleged-plot-tinubu-arrested/, February 1, 2026

    Photo credit: Legit.ng

  • Federal Government Moves to Disrupt Terrorist Bomb-Making Networks

    Federal Government Moves to Disrupt Terrorist Bomb-Making Networks

    In a security update published by The Punch, the Nigerian government has launched a specialized operation to dismantle the supply chains used by terrorists to manufacture Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The initiative focuses on tracking and restricting the flow of explosive materials, chemicals, and electronic components frequently intercepted in conflict zones. This follows a recent Boko Haram attack in Borno State that claimed the lives of five soldiers and 15 civilians, underscoring the urgent need for a more proactive counter-IED strategy.

    Security agencies have been directed to tighten surveillance at borders and monitor the sale of dual-use chemicals in the open market. The National Security Adviser’s office is coordinating with industrial chemical importers to ensure that materials meant for manufacturing and mining do not end up in the hands of insurgents. The government believes that by “choking” the supply of bomb-making materials, they can significantly reduce the lethality of terrorist operations.

    The operation was also validated by Daily Post and Premium Times. Daily Post reported that “new checkpoints are being established specifically to inspect chemical shipments,” while Premium Times noted that “intelligence sharing with neighboring countries has been intensified to track cross-border smuggling.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Choking the supply chain is a smarter long-term strategy than just kinetic warfare. However, the challenge will be doing this without hurting legitimate businesses in the mining and construction sectors that rely on these chemicals. Watch for new licensing requirements for chemical distributors.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/fg-to-disrupt-terrorists-bomb-making-supply-chains/, January 31, 2026

    Photo credit: Adobe Stock

  • Security Agencies Nab Popular Actor Over Alleged Coup Involvement

    Security Agencies Nab Popular Actor Over Alleged Coup Involvement

    In an update published by Premium Times, security forces have confirmed the discreet arrest of Nollywood actor and former Actors Guild chairman, Stanley Amandi, in connection with an alleged plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Amandi was reportedly taken into custody in Enugu by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) during a quiet operation that initially left his family in the dark. The investigation is said to involve both high-ranking military officers and civilian collaborators linked to the foiled coup attempt.

    The actor’s family initially suspected the Department of State Services (DSS) was behind the move due to the opaque nature of the arrest. However, formal correspondence later clarified that the DIA is leading the probe into what has been described as a “national security threat.” Amandi’s legal team and family have already raised concerns regarding his health, specifically citing his battle with hypertension, while requesting immediate access to him in detention.

    The arrest has also been detailed by The Punch and Daily Post. The Punch stated that “the operation marks a significant expansion of the government’s crackdown on alleged dissenters,” while Daily Post reported that “security is being beefed up in Enugu following the actor’s detention.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The involvement of a civilian entertainment figure in a coup investigation is rare and suggests the government is casting a wide net to identify “civilian influencers” potentially tied to military unrest. Watch for a public statement from the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) as this could trigger a rift between the creative industry and the security apparatus.

    Source: BusinessDay – https://businessday.ng/news/article/nollywood-actor-stanley-amandi-arrested-for-alleged-role-in-coup-plot-against-tinubu/, January 31, 2026

    Photo credit: BusinessDay

  • Plot to Assassinate President Tinubu and Top Officials Uncovered

    Plot to Assassinate President Tinubu and Top Officials Uncovered

    Premium Times reports (January 30, 2026) that a joint intelligence operation involving the Nigerian Army and the State Security Service (SSS) uncovered and disrupted an alleged plot aimed at overthrowing the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

    The alleged conspiracy, said to have taken shape in late 2025, reportedly targeted President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for assassination.

    Investigations reportedly advanced after a military whistleblower raised an alarm about a planned strike during a major presidential outing, prompting the cancellation of some high-profile national events and a wave of arrests of alleged military and civilian collaborators.

    ThisDay and The Nation also reported additional details, including claims of coordinated suspect activity and ongoing efforts to trace alleged financial sponsors.

    Echotitbits take: This development highlights persistent friction within parts of the security architecture and political class. While disrupting the plot is a major security win, the administration will need to manage public perception of instability. Expect tighter surveillance in Abuja and possible reshuffling of mid-level military commands in the weeks ahead.

    Source: Daily Trust – https://dailytrust.com/how-coup-to-topple-tinubu-was-uncovered-foiled/ 2026-01-30

    Photo Credit: Daily Trust

  • Strategic Deployment of Military Retirees to Secure Nigeria’s Ungoverned Spaces

    Strategic Deployment of Military Retirees to Secure Nigeria’s Ungoverned Spaces

    According to Daily Post, the Federal Government has unveiled a national security strategy involving the re-engagement of military veterans to help secure “ungoverned spaces” across the country. The initiative aims to leverage the experience of retired personnel to provide an added layer of security in rural and conflict-affected zones currently underserved by regular armed forces.

    The veterans are expected to act as a bridge between local communities and the formal military structure—supporting intelligence gathering and coordinating grassroots defense efforts. Officials argue this could be more cost-effective and culturally integrated than deploying active-duty troops to every remote area, though analysts are raising questions about chain of command and long-term sustainability.

    The Nation confirmed the plan and Vanguard highlighted the economic angle, with officials linking improved security to farmer protection and food security.

    Echotitbits take: Re-engaging veterans can scale security presence quickly without the lag time of training fresh recruits. The policy’s success will hinge on funding, clear command structures, and whether these units have defined legal powers—especially around arrest, detention, and rules of engagement.

    Source: The Punch –  https://punchng.com/military-retirees-to-secure-ungoverned-areas-fg/ 2026-01-29

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Air Force Launches Investigation into Civilian Casualties in Niger State

    Air Force Launches Investigation into Civilian Casualties in Niger State

    In an update published by ThisDay, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) activated a Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation (CHAI) team to probe reports of civilian deaths during a recent air interdiction in Niger State. The operation in Kurigi Village targeted suspected bandit leadership, but local accounts allege non-combatants were also affected.

    NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the service is committed to transparency and will conduct a comprehensive field assessment. The probe follows mounting pressure from communities and rights groups for improved precision in strikes near populated areas.

    The Punch corroborated the launch of the investigation, while Daily Post quoted local leaders describing the losses as devastating and calling for accountability.

    Echotitbits take: Creating a formal civilian-harm investigation mechanism is reputationally important for the NAF. But unless targeting is consistently supported by stronger ground intelligence and deconfliction processes, recurring incidents will continue to undermine legitimacy and fuel local resentment.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/naf-probes-alleged-civilian-casualties-in-niger-air-raid/ 2026-01-29

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Security: Notorious Bandit Leader Executed by Rival Group in Katsina

    Security: Notorious Bandit Leader Executed by Rival Group in Katsina

    Reporting by Daily Post indicates a significant shift in the power dynamics of banditry in Northwest Nigeria following the execution of Abdu Lankai, a prominent armed group leader. Lankai, who was known for enforcing a local “peace arrangement” in the Jibia area of Katsina State, was reportedly captured and killed by a rival faction linked to the notorious Bello Turji. The incident occurred during what was supposed to be a reconciliation meeting between the two groups.

    The death of Lankai has raised immediate fears of a collapse in the fragile calm that had existed in some parts of Katsina. Security experts warn that his execution could trigger a wave of retaliatory attacks between rival gangs, potentially caught in the crossfire of which are innocent civilians. The Nigerian security forces have been placed on high alert in the region to prevent any escalation of violence.

    The Punch confirmed the killing, quoting a local source who stated, “The execution of Lankai marks a dangerous turning point in the internal wars between these groups.” Vanguard also reported the development, noting that “security agencies are monitoring the situation to ensure that the peace deal in Jibia does not completely disintegrate.”

    Echotitbits take: While the death of any bandit leader might seem like progress, “internal cleansing” often leads to more radicalized and violent leadership taking over. The military should capitalize on this internal rift to launch a decisive offensive while the groups are disorganized.

    Source: Zagazola – https://zagazola.org/index.php/breaking-news/rival-bandit-leaders-clash-as-key-peace-enforcer-is-killed-in-jibia-axis-katsina January 28, 2026

    Photo Credit: Zagazola

  • Nigerian Navy Heightens Maritime Surveillance to Combat Crude Oil Theft

    Nigerian Navy Heightens Maritime Surveillance to Combat Crude Oil Theft

    The Nigerian Navy has deployed high-speed interceptor boats and drone technology to the Niger Delta to intensify operations against illegal oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism that continue to drain foreign exchange earnings.

    The Chief of Naval Staff said the new assets will provide real-time surveillance for remote creeks and offshore assets, cutting response time and tightening control of maritime corridors.

    The Navy also announced a collaboration framework with private security firms and local communities to improve intelligence and disrupt the logistics chains that support illegal refining.

    Echotitbits take: Crude oil theft remains one of Nigeria’s biggest revenue leakages. Drone-led surveillance can change the game, but the real test is whether enforcement reaches the high-level ‘godfathers’ behind the theft—not only the foot soldiers in the creeks.
    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/navy-backs-fgs-2-5mbpd-oil-projection-by-2027/ 2026-01-27

    Photo Credit: The Punch